Author: John Kennedy

Big business toasts Scott agenda

TALLAHASSEE — At the end of a day of photo op pre-inaugural events, Gov. Rick Scott finally spoke Monday evening at a cocktail reception for Florida business leaders, who are starting to like what they hear from the Naples businessman.…

Gubernatorial candidates divided on cure for economy

TALLAHASSEE — Florida’s three leading contenders for governor are divided on how to kick-start the state’s stalled economy, particularly on how to dole out tax incentives to business groups and industries. While Democrat Alex Sink and Republican Paula Dockery both…

Jobless tax changes may come quickly

TALLAHASSEE — House Speaker Larry Cretul laid out a plan Thursday for delaying a big increase in the state’s unemployment compensation tax — a move business groups have been demanding saying the boost is sure to spark more job layoffs.…

Crist calls for corporate tax cut

TALLAHASSEE — With Florida unemployment at a 36-year high, Gov. Charlie Crist on Tuesday called for scaling back the state’s corporate income tax as a means of keeping cash in struggling companies. Speaking at a pipe manufacturer in Panama City,…

Leaders look for unemployment tax fix

TALLAHASSEE — Business groups clamoring to block a big increase in the state’s unemployment compensation tax got a boost Thursday from Gov. Charlie Crist and legislative leaders. Without offering a plan, Crist, House Speaker Larry Cretul and Senate President Jeff…

Lobbying Rules Before Court This Winter

Florida lobbyists soon will get their day in court in a bid to overturn an almost three-year-old state law requiring them to disclose who pays them and how much, and also bars gifts to legislators. The Florida Supreme Court has…